The after party in the market hall in MetaForum, held after the ceremony marking the start of the new academic year, tends to be an event that students have no problem finding. But how can students be enticed to attend the preceding ceremony in the Auditorium, especially those who are not members of an association’s board?

Answering this question has been a key concern, says co-organizer Daan van Boekel, Bachelor’s student of Mechanical Engineering. “Professors in gowns, board members in suits - some people may find it all a little off-putting. Yet students will also find it a lot of fun as well as interesting, if only because it's a chance to catch up on what is going on at TU/e at the present time.”

With Victor Mids, the working group Academic Year Opening 2017 hopes to appeal to students across the broad. The illusionist, known for appearing on the television program ‘Mindf*ck’, is also a medical doctor, and hopefully this mix of show and science will appeal to students, says Van Boekel. Incidentally, what exactly Mids will do or show during the ceremony is still under discussion.

Various speakers are also scheduled to appear at the ceremony, including TU/e Rector Magnificus Frank Baaijens. The other invitees, from both the university and elsewhere, will be announced on Facebook in the coming weeks. In keeping with tradition, the ceremony on September 4 will include the handing out of the education awards.

Various musical acts will perform at the after party in the market hall starting at 17.30 hours. This event is expected to draw three to four thousand visitors. Similarly, in the coming weeks this line-up will also be revealed.

DJ contest

The organizing working group has set up an online DJ contest. Students who think they can put on a pretty good party at the turntables are welcome to enter their name and via Facebook submit a visual and audio sample of their work. The DJ with the most likes will be allowed to spin his or her music on the evening of Monday September 4 in the market hall. If it turns out that there are several great candidates, there may be space for two DJs, says Van Boekel.

The Academic Year Opening starts on Monday September 4 at 16.00 hours. No registration is required to attend the ceremony. A live stream will be available for anyone wishing to follow the proceedings from home. Those wishing to attend the after party (for both students and employees) will need to show their campus card. In keeping with tradition, the first 1500 liters of beer served at the party will be at the expense of the university.